if I may be so bold
Asking permission, audaciously
A polite formula for introducing a suggestion, question, or opinion that might seem presumptuous or forward: If I may be so bold, I think you're making a mistake.
The phrase acknowledges that what follows might overstep boundaries while requesting permission to proceed anyway.
Often used with slight irony or self-deprecation.
- if I do say so myselfPhrase softening self-praise
- if I may say soPolite permission to opine
- with all due respectPolite disclaimer before disagreeing
- pauseTemporary cessation of activity
- proposePut forth formally
whisper · blush · qualifying · hedging · suggest · temerity · glance · speak out of turn · venture · if you don't mind · beg your pardon · audacity · at the risk of · preamble · presumption · tact · deference · discretion
if I may be so boldwho asked you
Dismissal of unsolicited advice
deal with it · take it or leave it · make no mistake · frankly · look
if I may be so boldbluntly
Speaking without diplomacy
straight up · no offense but · cutting to the chase · bottom line · here's the deal